It is a busy morning at the Finch Haven Retirement Village in Fairland as the movement of chairs and loud music can be heard through the corridors of the village.
It is Monday morning and it is time for the weekly Ageless Grace class, hosted by Nicki Withers. The Ageless Grace programme consists of 21 simple tools for lifelong comfort and ease that can be done by almost anyone of any age or ability. The movements are natural and do not require any choreography. They are designed to not only stimulate the body, but also focus on the mind, spirit and emotions.
The exercises are designed in such a way that all of them are performed in a chair. Every session is a half and hour long and according to Withers she varies between the 21 tools so that every class in different. Almost all the participants are in need of some sort of walking aid, whether it be a walking frame, walking stick or wheelchair and it is good to get them moving despite their limitations.
General manager of Finch Haven, Tammy McLachlan says that the class has a positive impact on residents. “The residents always have a great laugh. The music Nicki chooses is divine,” said McLachlan.
The class on 9 May starts with a upbeat song from Elvis Presley. The participants all sing along while focusing on the first tool, spaghetti spine, that is designed to help with spinal flexibility. “I enjoy choosing the music the most. The class is playful which activates the participants,” said Withers. She added that on many of the days the people are a bit grouchy, but once they move and sing along for half an hour, they feel better.
Withers said that she would love to have Ageless Grace in all retirement homes, but someone would need certification to teach the classes.
Details: Nicki Withers, 083 452 0471.
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